Former board members continue legacy of giving through FCCF Ambassadors Club

The Fulton County Community Foundation’s Ambassadors Club recently gathered to award a series of pop-up grants supporting youth programs and literacy efforts across the county.

The Ambassadors Club, made up of former FCCF board members, meets twice a year to review opportunities and provide surprise funding to local organizations making a difference in the community.

This year’s spring grants centered on youth activities and learning, prompting one ambassador to describe the effort as “our summer for kids.”

Funding was awarded to local athletic leagues that provide opportunities for young people to learn teamwork, build confidence, and stay active throughout the summer. Recipients included the Akron Youth League, Caston Athletic League, Rochester Girls Softball League, and Rochester Youth Baseball League.

Additional grants supported educational and youth enrichment programs across Fulton County. Caston School Corporation received funding to build a decodable book library to support early literacy development. Riddle Elementary School received support for its Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) program, while the Rochester Summer Parks Program and Fulton County Pack a Back Pack also received grants to continue serving local youth and families.

Ambassador Kirk Robinson emphasized the importance of literacy initiatives like the project at Caston.

“Strong reading skills are the foundation for a child’s future success,” Robinson said. “Supporting resources that help students build those skills early on is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our community.”

Ambassador Laura Snipes reflected on the group’s commitment to supporting those who are shaping the next generation.

“We trust the leaders who are guiding our young people,” Snipes said. “When we support the people who are investing their time and energy into the next generation, that’s the circle of giving at work.”

Ambassador Judy Climie noted that the community foundation plays a unique role in bringing together people who care deeply about the future of Fulton County.

“The community foundation is the perfect place to connect people who are involved in our community and aware of emerging needs,” Climie said. “These grants focus on our children because they are our future. When we support the organizations and leaders helping them grow into healthy, capable adults with strong values, we are strengthening the entire community.”

Climie also encouraged others to consider giving through the foundation, noting that local philanthropy has a direct and lasting impact.

“It’s exciting to surprise these organizations with a little extra boost,” she said. “It reminds us that when people come together to give, the benefits ripple throughout our entire community.”